Add BrightSurf on Google Email

PSEP: an innovative wearable device for fashionable personal thermal comfort

Researchers develop PSEP, a compact and silent wearable thermal control device that offers real-time flow-rate monitoring and self-sensing capability. The device can adjust temperatures by up to 3°C, enhancing personal comfort and features an intuitive smartphone interface for seamless wireless control.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Thermally engineering templates for highly ordered self-assembled materials

Scientists at the University of Illinois and Michigan created a template that minimizes heat transfer, resulting in highly organized microstructures. The result is eutectic materials with predictable and consistent properties, crucial for applications requiring uniformity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 14, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Overcoming fine process limits with linker ion affinity

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology employ linker ions to pioneer three-dimensional microprinting technology applicable to inorganic substances and other various materials. The team successfully crafts inorganic porous structures with dimensions below 10 μm without specialized equipment.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2024

This ultrasound sticker senses changing stiffness of deep internal organs

A small, wearable ultrasound sticker can monitor organ stiffness and detect subtle changes that signal disease progression. The device has been shown to identify early signs of acute liver failure in rats and may one day help doctors diagnose internal organ failure more effectively.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Q&A: Helping robots identify objects in cluttered spaces

Researchers developed a way for robots to recognize objects even when partially obscured, using a visual perception system and topology. The THOR (Teaching Humans Object Recognition) method outperforms current state-of-the-art models in cluttered spaces, including warehouses and homes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateFeb 7, 2024

Incheon National University-Harvard University joint research team improves fuel cell durability with fatigue-resistant membranes

Researchers created a polymer electrolyte membrane with an interpenetrating network that enhances fatigue resistance and prolongs the lifespan of fuel cells. The composite membrane exhibits a lifespan of 410 hours, compared to 242 hours for the original Nafion membrane.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

Scientists create effective ‘spark plug’ for direct-drive inertial confinement fusion experiments

Researchers from the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics demonstrated an effective 'spark plug' for direct-drive methods of inertial confinement fusion (ICF), achieving a plasma hot enough to initiate fusion reactions. The successful experiments use the OMEGA laser system, with the goal of eventually producing fus...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 5, 2024

New kinds of padding could make football gear, bike helmets safer than ever

Researchers have developed a new padding design that can absorb forces in a more efficient way, with the potential to improve safety in various applications. The innovative technology uses a network of hexagonal towers and can be printed on commercially available 3D printers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateFeb 5, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Unveiling Oxidation-induced Super-elasticity in Metallic Glass Nanotubes

A research team led by Professor Yang Yong found that severely oxidized metallic glass nanotubes can attain an ultrahigh recoverable elastic strain of up to 14% at room temperature. The discovery implies that oxidation in low-dimension metallic glass can result in unique properties for applications in sensors, medical devices, and othe...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Researchers from Pusan National University employ artificial intelligence to unlock the secrets of magnesium alloy anisotropy

The team proposed a novel machine learning model with data augmentation, which accurately predicts the plastic anisotropic properties of wrought Mg alloys. The model showed significantly better robustness and generalizability than other models, paving the way for improved design and manufacturing of metal products.

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of Magnesium and Alloys·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2024

Engineers unveil new patch that can help people control robotic exoskeletons

Researchers have developed a wearable patch that can detect and respond to human muscle signals, allowing people to control robotic exoskeletons more efficiently. The patch, called SNAP, uses microneedles to pick up tiny signals from muscles and sends them to outside equipment for processing.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2024

How fractures nucleate, propagate and stop

A team of scientists discovered that fractures propagate in starts and stops, moving through materials at high speeds. The amplitude and time between jumps depend on the viscosity of the liquid injected into the rock.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 29, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Benchtop test quickly identifies extremely impact-resistant materials

A new study at MIT has developed a way to quickly test an array of metamaterial architectures and their resilience to supersonic impacts. The researchers found that the microstructure of the material matters, even with high-rate deformation, and identified impact-resistant structures for coatings or panels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2024

Vehicle networking environment information sharing based on distributed fountain code

A new study proposes a data-sharing solution based on distributed fountain coding to improve the reliability of transmission in complex vehicle-connected environments. The proposed method allows receivers to accept encoded packets from different vehicles, reducing decoding failure caused by network anomalies.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Networks·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2024

Locusts’ sense of smell boosted with custom-made nanoparticles

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis used specially made nanostructures to enhance the locust's ability to detect odors, boosting neural signals for improved chemical sensing. The team created a biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticle that converts light to heat, amplifying neural activity.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New model predicts how shoe properties affect a runner’s performance

A new model developed by MIT engineers predicts how certain shoe properties will affect a runner's performance, incorporating factors like stiffness and springiness. The model aims to help designers create high-performing shoes with novel properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·DateJan 24, 2024

Pusan National University's breakthrough in muscle regeneration: Nanotech scaffolding supports tissue growth

Researchers develop nanofibrous matrices containing MXene nanoparticles to aid in muscle regeneration. The study reveals molecular mechanisms behind the effects of MXene nanoparticles on muscle growth, suggesting a promising avenue for treating volumetric muscle loss and muscle-related ailments.

SourcePusan National University·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Researchers design new open-source technology for interfacing with living neurons

Researchers have designed a new, affordable system to study neural interactions and compute using living neurons. The open-source MiV system boasts over 500 electrodes, offering improved control and precision in measuring neural processes.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 23, 2024

Manipulated hafnia paves the way for next-gen memory devices

Researchers outline new method to stabilize bulk hafnia in metastable ferroelectric and antiferroelectric states, paving the way for non-volatile memory technology. The approach requires less yttrium, improving material quality and purity.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

3D bioprinting of in vitro brain metastasis model

A team of researchers created a 3D bioprinted brain blood vessel model to investigate the impact of blood vessel curvature on metastatic cancer development. The model revealed that increased blood vessel curvature correlates with heightened cancer cell adherence and extravasation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2024

Perfecting 3D-printed blood vessels with pores

A team of researchers has created artificial small-diameter vessels (SDVs) featuring pores that enable the formation of an endothelium without additional processing steps. The 3D-printed vessels were successfully infused with human cells, demonstrating spontaneous cellular assembly and paving the way for potential transplantation and f...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBioactive Materials·DateJan 17, 2024

Pushing the boundaries of ultrasound imaging: breaking new ground with ultrafast technology

Researchers have enhanced microvascular sensitivity using ultrafast ultrasound, capturing the three-dimensional vascular network of renal arteries and veins without contrast agents. This technique reveals sharp decreases in renal blood flow during acute renal failure and chronic vascular degeneration in diabetic nephropathy.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJan 17, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Using idle trucks to power the grid with clean energy

University of Waterloo researchers investigate how fuel cell-powered trucks can replenish overworked electricity grids with clean energy. The study proposes a mobile generator system, where idled electric vehicles act as power sources, reducing peak demand and carbon emissions.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateJan 12, 2024

Generating stable qubits at room temperature

Scientists achieve room-temperature quantum coherence by embedding a chromophore in a metal-organic framework, enabling the creation of quintet state qubits with four electron spins. This breakthrough could lead to the development of multiple qubit systems at room temperature, revolutionizing quantum computing and sensing.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

New transactions of nonferrous metals society of china study uncovers low-temperature deformation mechanism of pure titanium

Researchers investigate grain size and temperature effects on Ti deformation at extremely low temperatures, finding that cryogenic temperatures trigger deformation twinning, boosting strength and ductility. The study proposes a modified Hall-Petch relationship to explain strengthening mechanisms at cryogenic temperatures.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

New soft robots roll like tires, spin like tops and orbit like moons

Researchers have developed twisted ringbots that can roll forward, spin like a record, and follow an orbital path around a central point. These devices can navigate and map unknown environments without human or computer control.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Stripes in a flowing liquid crystal suggest a route to “chiral” fluids

Researchers at MIT find that slow-flowing liquid crystals can spontaneously assemble into large, twisted, chiral structures, opening a new path to generating chiral materials. These structures could serve as spiral scaffolds for assembling intricate molecular structures and be used as optical sensors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2024

How does corrosion happen? New research examines process on atomic level

Researchers at Binghamton University have used environmental transmission electron microscopy to study the atomic-level mechanisms of water vapor-induced surface passivation. They discovered a second amorphous layer that diffuses oxygen into the substrate, indicating a transport mechanism that slows down corrosion.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2024

PolyU researchers develop nature-inspired advanced materials to achieve 99.6% solar reflectivity

Researchers at PolyU developed a cooling ceramic with a hierarchically porous structure, inspired by the whitest beetle, to achieve high solar reflectivity and efficient light scattering. This innovation has potential energy-saving applications and is the first study on the Leidenfrost effect in passive radiative cooling materials.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024

Using static electricity to enhance biomedical implant durability

A research team developed electrostatic materials capable of responding to weak ultrasound, generating static electricity for implantable neurological stimulators. The technology eliminates the need for batteries, reduces device size, and minimizes strain on the human body. Experimental validation confirms its effectiveness in animal m...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 3, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Piezo composites with carbon fibers for motion sensors

Researchers at Tohoku University have engineered a novel device combining piezoelectric composites with carbon fibers, transforming kinetic energy into electricity for efficient motion sensing. The new device has been tested to withstand over 1000 stretches and surpasses other materials in terms of energy output density.

SourceTohoku University·JournalSmall·DateDec 28, 2023

Electric light transmits data 100 times faster than Wi-Fi

Researchers have developed a novel light source that minimizes interference zones, enabling stable and accurate information transmission. The technology utilizes conventional lighting systems, such as LEDs, to facilitate the simultaneous transmission of large amounts of data.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 27, 2023

Engineers develop a vibrating, ingestible capsule that might help treat obesity

The researchers designed a capsule about the size of a multivitamin, powered by a small battery, which vibrates to activate mechanoreceptors in the stomach. This activation stimulates hormone release patterns similar to those following a meal, reducing food intake and slowing weight gain by 40 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 22, 2023

HKU Mechanical Engineering Scientists hail breakthrough in cell and tissue mechanics, enhancing understanding of organ formation and embryogenesis

A research team led by Professor Yuan Lin has made a major breakthrough in showing how plastic strain develops in individual cells and propagates within the tissue. The study reveals the biophysical mechanisms behind cellular and tissue plasticity at different scales, providing critical insights for regenerative medicine.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Researchers find way to weld metal foam without melting its bubbles

Researchers at North Carolina State University have identified a welding technique that can join composite metal foam components without impairing their properties. The new method uses induction welding, which penetrates deeply into the material and insulates it against heat.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2023

This adaptive roof tile can cut both heating and cooling costs

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed an adaptive roof tile that can switch between heating and cooling modes based on temperature. The device, powered by a wax motor, has been shown to reduce energy consumption for cooling by 3.1x and heating by 2.6x compared to conventional devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalDevice·DateDec 13, 2023

Artificial intelligence for safer bike helmets and better shoe soles

Researchers developed AI tools to systematically explore metamaterials' design and mechanical properties, predicting optimal structures for desired deformation responses. The tools can generate and optimize new structures using large datasets and variational autoencoders.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2023

A cool (temperature) take on direct air carbon capture

Researchers have developed an ion-exchange method that captures CO2 at room temperature, paired with an electrochemical cell to purify the gas. The technology has the potential to be powered by industrial waste heat or geothermal energy, reducing emissions and costs.

SourceLehigh University·DateDec 11, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

MIT engineers design a robotic replica of the heart’s right chamber

The new robotic replica, called RRV, can mimic healthy and diseased states, allowing scientists to test cardiac devices and therapies. The model can also be used to study the effects of mechanical ventilation on the right ventricle and develop strategies to prevent right heart failure.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateDec 8, 2023

Polaritons open up a new lane on the semiconductor highway

Purdue University researchers have found that polaritons can contribute a larger share of thermal conductivity in semiconductors, overcoming phonon limitations. By understanding how to design materials and structures, manufacturers can incorporate these polariton-based nanoscale heat transfer principles into chip designs.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 7, 2023

2D material reshapes 3D electronics for AI hardware

Researchers developed a novel approach to integrate multiple functions into a single chip using monolithic 3D integration of layered 2D materials. This technology offers unprecedented efficiency and performance in AI computing tasks, enabling faster processing, less energy consumption, and enhanced security.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Bidding adieu to sticky ice, but with a grain of salt

Researchers discovered that impure ice is less sticky than pure ice due to its unique structure and quasi-liquid layer. The study found that slow freezing processes preserve contaminants within the ice, leading to weaker adhesion. This discovery could lead to the design of next-generation winterization techniques.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateNov 28, 2023

Honeybee cluster—not insulation but stressful heat sink

Researchers found that honeybees' cluster behavior is a survival strategy against cold temperatures, not insulation. The study suggests that beekeepers should reconsider their hives' design and materials to reduce heat loss.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 27, 2023

A novel lightweight wearable device to perform balance exercises at home

Researchers developed a lightweight wearable balance exercise device to improve reactive postural control in older adults, reducing the risk of falls. The device uses pneumatic artificial muscles to generate unexpected perturbations, resulting in improved peak displacement and velocity.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Autonomous excavator constructs a 6-meter-high dry-stone wall

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed an autonomous excavator called HEAP to construct a 6-meter-high and 65-meter-long dry-stone wall. The excavator uses sensors, machine vision, and algorithms to place stones in the desired location, achieving a high level of precision and speed.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023

Gold now has a golden future in revolutionizing wearable devices

Researchers developed an integrated wearable sensor device using gold nanowires to measure multiple bio-signals simultaneously. The sensors demonstrated remarkable performance in detecting muscle tremors, heartbeat patterns, and body temperature changes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 20, 2023

HKU Engineering ‘Super Steel’ team develops new ultra stainless steel for hydrogen production

The University of Hong Kong's 'Super Steel' team has developed a novel stainless steel with superior corrosion resistance, enabling its potential application in green hydrogen production from seawater. The new steel exhibits comparable performance to current industrial practices using Titanium while being much cheaper.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalMaterials Today·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Ingestible electronic device detects breathing depression in patients

Researchers developed an ingestible capsule to measure vital signs from within the GI tract, detecting sleep apnea episodes and breathing rate depression. The device shows promise for early detection of respiratory changes, including those caused by opioids or asthma/COPD.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDevice·DateNov 17, 2023